A Grandparent Power of Attorney is a document given by a parent to a grandparent to allow the grandparent to act in place of the parent. It is typically used in situations where grandparent caregivers have physical custody of their grandchildren but have not been awarded custody by the court. When properly completed, notarized, and filed with the court, these forms will assist grandparents in enrolling grandchildren in school, participating in activities, and accessing routine and emergency medical and dental care.
It is recommended that Grandparent Powers of Attorney be drawn up by an attorney as it is a legal document. The parent can give limited or broad powers to the grandparent. The parent must be legally able to sign the document.
You should be able to get the required forms at a legal aid office or law school clinic if you cannot afford to pay an attorney. Contact your state bar association for referral to a low- or no-cost lawyer referral system.
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